Summary

In Chapter 17, Charles tells Bobby about running into Elizabeth and Mary and his plans to tell Elizabeth the truth. Bobby warns him not to, demanding to know what Charles wants from this anyway. On the way home, Charles tells himself he does not want anything.

The next day, Charles visits Lenno at the hospital. He studies him in the bed, feeling sympathy for him despite his hatred. Afterwards, Charles and Gizos talk about love and parents. They stand outside smoking and speculate about a passerby. Charles realizes Gizos has always loved him and still wishes Charles could love him romantically. He hugs Charles and apologizes, for what Charles does not know.

In Chapter 18, Charles helps Louise settle the elephant in the car before leaving for her treatment. Upset the baby does not have a car seat, Charles gets one from Rhett, who collects...